The branch facilitates informal dispute resolution by responding to parent inquiries, assisting parents with navigating Maryland’s early intervention and special education systems, and connecting parents with community resources and local personnel who can assist with concerns. Additionally, staff investigate and resolve formal State complaints that allege violations of state and federal IDEA requirements regarding the…

The goal of the facilitated IEP meeting is to help IEP team members communicate effectively and develop an educational program to meet the child’s need. The independent facilitators, from Community Mediation Centers, can be contacted through the Howard County Public School System’s Family Support and Resource Center at 410-313-7161.

The Howard County Public School System promotes the involvement of parents, families and community members as active partners in education. There may be times when a parent, guardian, or custodian will have a concern related to his or her child’s education. A Parents’ Guide to Due Process In Special Education outlines the steps for addressing concerns

Resolving school concerns and disagreements Howard County Public School System When concerns outside special education arise, parents and guardians are encouraged to direct their concerns to the persons most closely involved. However, when an informal process fails to provide resolution, a parent may file a formal complaint